Mental Health can be defined as “the capacity to feel, think and act in ways that enhance our ability to enjoy life and deal with the challenges we face.” (Public Health Agency of Canada)

We have a campus population of over 35,000 students, staff and faculty, and the prevalence of mental health issues is likely higher than we know. Wellness in mind, body, and spirit is essential to academic success, job performance and to achieving our personal goals. The most important things you can do to maintain good mental health are to pay attention to sleep, exercise and nutrition. Supportive and caring relationships can be a great help, and so it is important to make it a priority to make and nurture these relationships.

If you suffer from depression or have have mental health concerns, you are not alone. Western offers free counselling services and several on campus mental health resources; including services for students and (even a service just for international students) and supports for faculty and staff. If you hear a friend or colleague talk of feeling overwhelmed, please don’t ignore it - listen and encourage them to talk to someone who can help.